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10 Signs Of Fibromyalgia Never to Ignore

May 10, 2017 by Chris Butler

Fibromyalgia is a particularly distressing condition that can affect someone mentally and physically. Upon awakening, someone with fibromyalgia commonly experiences a rapid onset of fatigue when attempting to move their body.

The severe mental and physical complications of fibromyalgia can make one’s daily routine a difficult path to navigate. Before delving into the signs of fibromyalgia, here are some relevant facts about the condition:

Women aged 25 to 60 comprise the majority of fibromyalgia patients.
Women are ten times more likely to develop the disease.
Diagnosing fibromyalgia requires a comprehensive physical examination, as a physician must rule out any other similar conditions.
Your doctor will order a blood test, specifically a full blood count (FBC) and thyroid exam, to diagnose the condition.
Upon a diagnosis of fibromyalgia, patients must often visit a rheumatologist for proper treatment.

We sincerely hope that this article is insightful and inspires those with fibromyalgia to seek medical guidance.

Never Ignore These Ten Red Flags That May Reveal Fibromyalgia

Do you have any of these symptoms?

1. Head-to-toe pain

Most of those who visit their doctor and receive this diagnosis complain of proliferating body pain. Indeed, many describe fibromyalgia pain as “deep, sharp, throbbing or aching.

Moreover, it can affect ligaments, muscles, and tendons. The pain associated with fibromyalgia is often consistent and unresponsive to typical over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications.

2. Persistent fatigue, or exhaustion

Fatigue is the second most common complaint of people diagnosed with fibromyalgia. The primary difference between someone experiencing “tiredness” and extreme fatigue (i.e., exhaustion) is the duration of associated symptoms.

Those with fibromyalgia frequently associate their sense of fatigue with a case of the flu. They are unable to perform at an average level. This feeling of exhaustion applies to simple tasks, exercise, and even waking up.

3. Body stiffness

More than 75 percent of those with the condition experience bodily stiffness, particularly during morning hours. This physical sense of rigidity is similar to those diagnosed with arthritis, especially inflammatory or rheumatoid arthritis.

In some cases, these symptoms fade within 10 to 15 minutes; in others, they’ll last most of the day, if not all waking hours.

4. Poor quality sleep

Due to their physical and mental states, those with fibromyalgia find it difficult to get quality sleep. One reason for this is the erratic brain activity experienced in fibromyalgia patients during rest. Further, that uneasiness in falling asleep is followed by interruptions caused by irregular brain activity.

5. “Trigger points” that evoke pain or tenderness

Like arthritis patients, those with fibromyalgia usually have trigger points. Indeed, these areas of the body produce painful sensations in disproportionate frequency.

Sadly, when you apply even slight pressure, these “trigger points” are harrowing. Fortunately, a specialist can provide valuable insights into managing them. Readily available anti-inflammatory OTCs can alleviate some of this pain.

6. Abnormal digestion

Constipation, diarrhea, and bloating are all potential symptoms of fibromyalgia. According to WebMD, approximately 40 to 70 percent of patients experience symptoms similar to Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS.

Acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occur similarly.

7. Numbness, swelling, or tingling

About half of those with fibromyalgia experience a “pins and needles” sensation in their arms, feet, hands, and legs. Doctors call this paraesthesia. For some, these sensations may last no longer than a few minutes; for others, they can be pretty consistent.

Similar to many fibromyalgia-related symptoms, paresthesia is often barely noticeable. However, it is crucial for those experiencing frequent numbness, swelling, or tingling in the arms, feet, hands, or legs to seek medical advice.

8. Spasms of the fingers and toes

In 25 to 50 percent of fibromyalgia patients, there are arterial spasms of the hands or toes. This symptom occurs as a result of exposure to either cold or stress. Importantly, affected areas will often take on a bluish or pale coloration and are also accompanied by pain.

Known as Raynaud’s syndrome or Raynaud’s phenomenon, the symptoms, as mentioned earlier, often dissipate when you apply heat.

9. Sensitivity to temperature

Because of their bodily state, it is pretty tricky for those with fibromyalgia to regulate their body temperature. As you’ve likely noticed, some of the above-mentioned symptoms are strikingly similar to arthritis.

It is common for any fluctuations in temperature to affect people who have fibromyalgia. At times, these patients complain that the environment is too cold or hot to their liking. Indeed, this symptom makes it difficult for them to be productive or properly rest.

10. ‘Fibro fog.’

Similar to ‘brain fog,’ fibromyalgia may manifest into concentration problems. Also, people with the condition may experience short-term memory difficulties. They may also have general feelings of confusion, forgetfulness, and lack of mental clarity.

Without proper medical intervention, ‘fibro fog’ can negatively affect one’s daily life; this is particularly evident during work or personal time.

10 Care Tips For People Who Have Fibromyalgia

Experts suggest these ten self-care tips for relief from your fibro symptoms and ways to improve living with this chronic condition.

1. Manage stress with meditation

Stress increases fibromyalgia symptoms. To feel better, reduce and manage your daily stress. That’s because people with fibromyalgia often struggle with anxiety and depression. Therefore, learning what triggers your anxiety and managing stress will reduce your symptoms. Meditation is a way many fibro sufferers say to lower their stress. Meditation gives you a feeling of peace and calms you emotionally and physically. The emotional benefits of meditation include:

Increase your self-awareness

Focus on the present
Manage stress
Gives you perspective in stressful situations
Minimizes your negative emotions
Helps you feel more patient
Increases your creativity

2. Get enough sleep

One predominant symptom of fibromyalgia is insomnia. You may find it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep during the night. Thus, you must create a calming bedtime routine to help your body wind down at night. So take a warm bath.

Also, lower your adrenaline by not watching television or being on your computer. That’s because blue screens affect your ability to fall asleep. So shut down your computer and smartphone at least one hour before bedtime. Eat a high-protein snack to avoid low blood sugar waking you up during the night.

3. Exercise, but not too much

Overcoming the pain associated with fibromyalgia is challenging. You may not feel like exercising if you’re in a lot of pain. However, regular exercise helps you manage your painful symptoms. But don’t overdo it. Pushing yourself too hard with high-intensity activities will cause your fibromyalgia symptoms to get worse. Incorporate low-impact exercises at least three times a week. Low impact exercises you can try include these:

Light yoga
Walking
Swimming
Tai chi
Water aerobics

Spread out your exercises throughout the week to reduce your pain. So get outside for some fresh air and sunshine. Spending time outdoors will improve your mood, give you extra vitamin D, and reduce your pain.

4. Rest

People living with fibromyalgia say they’ve learned to listen to their bodies. Don’t ignore signs of fatigue. Take a break if you’re feeling exhausted. Avoid pushing yourself too much. Overdoing it will increase your stress and pain. Regular little breaks throughout your day are the secret to feeling better and having more energy. Try reading or doing a relaxing hobby to give your mind and body a break.

5. Take Hot Baths

Another self-care tip fibro sufferers suggest is taking a hot bath or shower to reduce your pain and stiffness. The hot water warms up your joints and muscles. It helps you relax and feel less stiff. Warm baths get your blood flowing, which improves the oxygen flow throughout your body. The steam from the tub allows you to breathe deeper and slower. You may enjoy going to a spa that has a sauna. Thermal therapy can lower your pain levels and improve your overall quality of life.

6. Be flexible about work

If you have fibromyalgia, you know you can’t have a job that’s too physically or mentally tiring. Giving up the job you love can be difficult. But it’s essential to be flexible. Perhaps you can find a job within your field which allows you to work without increasing your fibro symptoms. So if you struggle with these changes in your life, find a counselor to discuss how you feel. They can help you learn how to cope with your life with fibromyalgia.

7. Reduce inflammatory foods

Studies show that an anti-inflammatory diet reduces your body’s triggers of inflammation. Lowering your inflammation reduces your fibro symptoms. Besides that, it reduces your chances of getting certain diseases such as heart disease, arthritis, some types of cancer, depression, and Alzheimer’s disease. Inflammatory foods you should avoid include the following:

Refined carbohydrates like pastries and bread
Sodas and other sugar drinks
Red meats such as beef, bacon, and sausage
Processed foods
Fried foods such as french fries

Instead, add these anti-inflammatory foods to your regular diet to reduce painful fibromyalgia symptoms. These foods include:

Olive oils
Leafy greens such as kale or spinach
Nuts and seeds like walnuts and almonds
Fatty fish like salmon and tuna
Berries like blueberries and strawberries
Citrus fruits like oranges
Tomatoes

8. Stay positive

Despite your struggles with fibromyalgia, it’s helpful to stay positive. A positive attitude won’t change your situation. However, it will lift your mood and lower stress. You can practice staying positive by adopting these practices:

Staying connected to your loved ones
Remembering to be thankful
Getting involved in hobbies or activities, you enjoy
Having a purpose in life
Looking for good things each day

9. Get a massage

One way to reduce the stiffness and pain of your fibromyalgia is to get a weekly massage. That’s because massage helps reduce your pain and lessens the stress and anxiety associated with fibromyalgia. Find a massage therapist familiar with fibromyalgia because they need to do gentle massage to avoid causing you more pain.

10. Listen to music

Music has a powerful effect on your emotions and mood. Studies show that listening to music affects your nervous system, lowers your stress, and helps heal faster. So choose any music you like that enhances your sense of peace and calm. Listening to soft music at night before bedtime will help you sleep better.

Final Thoughts on Fibromyalgia

Four million Americans struggle with fibromyalgia today. Of course, you know the importance of managing your symptoms if you’re one of those individuals. There’s no one way to eliminate fibromyalgia symptoms. However, fibro sufferers suggest these ten self-care tips to reduce your pain, fatigue, and other common symptoms of this condition. Hopefully, you’ll find one of these self-care tips to reduce your symptoms. Besides, this information can improve your overall quality of life living with fibromyalgia.

5 Things To Give Up Right Now (Even If You Don’t Want To)

May 7, 2017 by Power of Positivity

Giving up anything we’ve come to embrace (consciously or not) as part of ourselves is often a tricky endeavor. Compiling a list of things that each one of us “shouldn’t do” is also hard. But we digress.

We sincerely believe that giving up the five things on this list will lead to a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life. Each item has the potential to eliminate a ton of stress and possible heartache while maybe even providing a renewed sense of freedom.

Here are five things we should all aim to give up:

“Nothing is more intolerable than to have to admit to yourself your own errors.” Ludwig van Beethoven

1. Give Up The Need For Control

Aside from positive self-control, we should each minimize the need to feel in control of things around you.

People tagged with the “control freak” label always need to feel in control of events, situations, and especially people; this last one strips the right of each individual to be themselves simply. Controlling others is a form of abuse, something nobody should have to experience.

Letting go of this need for control, no matter how hard at first, will feel like a tremendous weight has been lifted. It’s quite likely that your relationships will improve as well.

2. The Need To Be Right

For some of us, the idea of admitting a mistake – or conceding that someone else is right – produces a sense of dread. In this regard, we share the same sentiment as the great Bruce Lee, who once said:

“Mistakes are always forgivable, if one has the courage to admit them.”

Countless relationships and friendships have ended because one (or both) person ALWAYS had to be right; no matter any facts or evidence to the contrary.

Not only is this erroneous stubbornness a relationship-breaker; it’s a very unhealthy behavior – not just for the individual, but to those unfortunate enough to be exposed to it.

Ever had a boss with an insatiable need to be right? How terrible was it to work under the microscope of a borderline tyrant? These same feelings surface in others when we insist on being right.

3. Give Up The Need To Complain

Totally giving up the act of complaining is similar to giving up the need to breathe. Inwardly or outwardly, we will all engage in a grumbling episode from time to time. We all possess enough self-awareness to admit whether or not we’re constant complainers – and whether or not a change in outlook is in order.

The uncomfortable (but freeing) reality is that external stressors are a matter of internal perception. Sir Charles Lyell, in 1863, wrote:

“It may be said that, so far from having a materialistic tendency, the supposed introduction into the earth at successive geological periods of life – sensation, instinct, the intelligence of the higher mammalia bordering on reason, and lastly, the improvable reason of Man himself – presents us with a picture of the ever-increasing dominion of mind over matter.“

In short, our improbable existence, and the indisputable superiority of our species’ innate intellect to adapt in spite of seemingly insurmountable challenges throughout the ages proves the natural power of man.

Complaining is a pointless act. Instead, use your mind and overcome the matter.

4. The Need To Make Excuses

Excuse making is an act of self-limitation – a behavior that can stunt individual progress.

Instead of putting forth the necessary effort to achieve our goals, finish a task, or follow through on a commitment, many of us will instead take the easy way out. Allowing some baseless excuse to spew from our lips is the easiest way out possible.

Attribute constant excuse-making to ignorance, immaturity, or laziness; the effects are disruptive, even disastrous. But this can all change if we’re able to admit this shortcoming and drive forward.

George Washington Carver, an African-American born into slavery, received nationwide recognition (including in Time Magazine) for his breakthroughs in the areas of botany and biology throughout his lifetime. Despite living in a time of extreme racism, Mr. Carver once proclaimed

“Ninety-nine percent of the failures come from people who have the habit of making excuses.”

That’s an eye opener, indeed. Well put, Mr. Carver.

5. Give Up The Need To Limit Yourself

As intelligent human beings, we are aware when something we’re doing is holding us back.

We couldn’t possibly list every single thing that is counterproductive to health, growth, and happiness. We’re all different, which only makes such any attempt to compartmentalize limiting behavior all the more impossible.

Are you a chronic procrastinator? Slowly work on disciplining yourself to get things done on time.

Are you engaging in habits you know to be harmful?

Maybe you drink a bit too much, watch too much television, spend too much money, hang out with the wrong crowd, (fill in the behavior here)…it’s never too late to commit to change.

Admit your shortcomings and work (however slowly) to finding a different way.

6 Warning Signs of a Nutritional Deficiency

May 7, 2017 by Power of Positivity

A nutritional deficiency occurs when the body doesn’t absorb the necessary amount of a nutrient. Deficiencies can lead to a variety of health problems. These can include problems of digestion, skin problems, stunted or defective bone growth, and even dementia.

Ideally, we would consume enough minerals, vitamins, and nutrients through our diets, but the fact is that many of us do not. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about one in ten people are “nutrient-deficient.”

Dietary supplements are just that: they supplement any vitamins, minerals, etc. that we may be lacking. In some cases, people use supplements for expediency or when trying to alter the appearance of their body (e.g. muscle gain or fat loss.)

Are supplements the answer?

Undoubtedly, many high-quality and effective supplements exist on the market. However, supplements are not regulated the way traditional medicines (i.e. pharmaceuticals) are; which is a common talking point against the marketing of supplements.

In this article, we discuss 6 signs that your body may be affected by a nutritional deficiency. Keep in mind that dietary alterations may accomplish the same. Consulting with a health professional – a dietitian, nutritionist or physician – may help determine whether we should use supplements (or other, more natural means).

Here are those 6 nutritional deficiency signs:

1. Your skin, hair, or nails look a bit rough

Our largest organ, the skin, constantly demands vital nutrients to remain healthy. Similarly, our hair and nails require sufficient nourishment to maintain their strength and luster. A deficiency in biotin, for instance, can result in skin issues such as flaking, inflammation, and irritation. Furthermore, brittle or cracked nails might also indicate a biotin shortage. Biotin-rich foods include dairy, eggs, proteins, and whole grains. Health experts recommend a daily intake of about 30 micrograms of biotin.

Although biotin is a frequent culprit leading to nutritional deficiency of the skin, here are a few others to know:

Vitamin A: This vitamin is vital for skin repair and maintenance. A deficiency can lead to dry and flaky skin. It’s found in foods like carrots, sweet potatoes, and dark leafy greens.
Zinc: Zinc plays a crucial role in skin development and inflammation prevention. A deficiency can lead to acne, eczema, and even hair loss. Foods high in zinc include nuts, seeds, dairy, and meat.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Essential for maintaining skin moisture and elasticity, a deficiency can result in dry skin. Foods rich in omega-3s include fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds.
Vitamin E: Acts as an antioxidant and is crucial for skin health. A deficiency can lead to dry and damaged skin. Foods high in vitamin E include almonds, spinach, and avocados.
Selenium: This mineral protects the skin from UV-induced damage and delays aging. A deficiency can cause skin infections. Foods rich in selenium are Brazil nuts, fish, and whole grains.

It’s important to remember that the health of our skin, hair, and nails reflects our overall nutrition. A balanced diet, rich in various nutrients, ensures they remain in optimal condition. If signs of deficiencies appear, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare or nutritional professional.

2. Your bowel movements are irregular

While discussions about bowel movements can be seen as taboo, irregularities in this area might signal a nutritional deficiency. Niacin, or vitamin B3, plays a pivotal role in the digestive process and can help mitigate gastrointestinal symptoms. Foods like green vegetables, eggs, fish, meat, and nuts are rich in niacin. The recommended daily intake for niacin ranges between 14 to 18 milligrams.

3. You’ve got the “red eyes”

This isn’t about the typical “red eyes” following a late night but rather a potential vitamin deficiency. A lack of vitamin B2, or riboflavin, can lead to red, bloodshot eyes. This deficiency might be more prevalent among individuals following extreme diets, those who are underweight, or people with specific digestive disorders like celiac disease. Foods like green leafy vegetables, eggs, fish, milk, and lean meats are abundant in riboflavin. The suggested daily intake of riboflavin is around 1.5 milligrams.

4. You bruise too often or too easily

If you notice that you bruise easily or excessively, it could be a sign of a deficiency in vitamin C. Besides its role as an antioxidant, which guards our cells against free radicals, vitamin C also bolsters our immune system, reducing susceptibility to illnesses. Moreover, a decrease in vitamin C levels can weaken the vessels near the skin’s surface, leading to easier bruising. Foods rich in vitamin C include citrus fruits, kale, peppers, and strawberries.

5. You “cramp up” rather often

Though relatively uncommon, a deficiency in vitamin E can manifest as frequent body cramps, particularly in the legs. A study in California Medicine observed that administering vitamin E to individuals with leg cramps led to significant relief for most of the participants. Rich sources of vitamin E encompass cereals, eggs, green leafy vegetables, vegetable oils, seeds, and nuts.

Another of the most common mineral deficiencies linked to muscle cramps is magnesium. Magnesium plays a pivotal role in muscle function and nerve transmission. A deficiency can result in muscle contractions and spasms. Foods like almonds, spinach, cashews, and black beans are best bets to try – they are super sources of magnesium.

Finally, here’s a surprising source of muscle cramping – sodium. While excessive sodium intake is often discouraged, it’s essential to remember that sodium plays a role in muscle contraction. Especially in athletes or those who sweat profusely, low sodium levels can cause muscle cramps. It’s important to balance your salt intake and not excessively reduce it.

6. You feel tired all the time

Feeling drained or constantly tired can be attributed to various reasons, from underlying medical conditions and overexertion to sleep deprivation. However, a nutritional deficiency can also be a culprit. The body’s primary energy source is glucose derived from healthy carbohydrates. It’s the most swiftly converted nutritional source into energy.

Incorporating whole grains, fruits, low-fat yogurt, and milk into one’s diet can ensure adequate glucose intake. Nutritional specialists typically advise a daily glucose intake of 130 grams.

Final Thoughts on Identifying and Fixing a Nutritional Deficiency

Recognizing the subtle hints our bodies provide when unbalanced is crucial for maintaining optimal health. Nutritional deficiencies, while sometimes overlooked in their early stages, can manifest in myriad ways – be it the health of our skin, the vitality of our hair, or the strength of our nails, among other signs.

The first step in addressing any deficiency is identification. In fact, regular health check-ups and blood tests can offer objective insights into one’s nutritional profile. If you notice changes in your body that can’t be attributed to any immediate cause, it might be a sign that your nutrition needs closer examination.

However, while it’s essential to identify and address deficiencies, the goal should always be a proactive approach to health. A well-balanced diet, rich in various whole foods, can often prevent many common deficiencies. Incorporating diverse food groups, ensuring adequate hydration, and regularly monitoring your health can act as safeguards.

Moreover, while natural food sources are the ideal way to obtain essential nutrients, there are times when supplementation might be necessary. In such cases, it’s imperative to consult with healthcare professionals. They can guide the type, dosage, and duration of supplementation required.

Lastly, remember that our bodies are dynamic systems, continuously evolving with age, activity levels, and environmental factors. What worked for us in one decade might require adjustment in the next. By staying attuned to our bodies, educating ourselves, and seeking expert advice when needed, we can ensure that our nutritional needs are always met, allowing us to lead healthier, more vibrant lives.

5 Signs You’re With A Sincere Man

May 7, 2017 by Power of Positivity

Ladies, do you want to know whether your Significant Other is sincere? Is that a significant YES? No problem! We have five signs today to show that your man is a fountain of truth. We know you are champing at the bit to find out, so let us look and see what they are.

5 Signs You’re With A Sincere Man

“Honesty is the best policy.” – Benjamin Franklin

1) He empowers you.

He sings your praises, both in your presence and your absence. He knows you like the back of his hand and what you are capable of, and will stop at nothing to make sure you meet your goals, whatever they may be. When an honest man gives a compliment, you know deep down that what he says is for real. There is no ulterior motive for what he says.

On the other hand, a man who gives you a backhanded compliment does so to change and condition you in some form or other. Examples of which could be:

– “You’re pretty for an *insert descriptive word here* girl.”

– “You’re a good driver for a woman.”

– “You finally look as good as you did when we first met!”

2) He fights fairly.

Too many people resort to name-calling and the dreaded blame game, which can put the “mental” in “detrimental” in terms of any relationship, let alone a supposedly loving one. Here are some examples from Hey Sigmund‘s Karen Young that sincere people do to fight fairly:

– “Don’t fear conflict.”

Conflict is normal and healthy and is an opportunity for growth. Fearing it will just make you avoid it, thus issues will fester and worsen.

– “Attack the issue, not each other.”

You are both on the same side, so tackle what is wrong with the situation, not your partner. If you go after your partner, resentment can creep in and withdrawal can occur.

– “Stay with the issue at hand.”

No veering off on a tangent or winning the argument with the oft-used “I’m right, you’re wrong!” spiel. Look to conflict resolution, not cheap points scoring.

– “Be open about what you need.”

After all, nobody on this planet can read your mind. Bottling things up is hazardous and can lead to imploding with some ugly consequences.

– “Stay away from “always” and “never” in fights.”

These two evil twins are more dangerous than Ronnie and Reggie Kray in their heyday. All these words do is add fuel to the fire. They are off limits in all circumstances.

3) He wants the same things as you.

Imagine the scenario: You have been dating him for a while now and are dying for him to get down on bended knee and pop the question. At a dinner at your married friend’s house, he declares the question you want so badly is out of the question for him. How do you feel? How do your friend and her husband feel for you?

A sincere man with good intentions tells you exactly what he wants out of the relationship with no stone unturned. Do you both want to marry? Do you both want kids? What are your professional aspirations for each other? Do you agree on living arrangements? If you do not know this by now, ask him and see how he reacts.

4) He prioritizes the relationship over other things.

He makes sure that things do not interfere with the integrity of the relationship with you. He lets you know of his plans to go out with the lads to let off some steam if you both have already had a date night(s) earlier in the week. Finally, he will steer clear of temptation with other women, because he is mature and would never risk what he has at home. Of course, he would also let you let your hair down with the girls so YOU can let off steam.

On the other side of the coin, if everything else is higher than you on his priorities list, then you need to watch closely at what he does and how he acts and decide whether if this is justified or not. If not, you need to know if this will change shortly or if you are flogging a dead horse.

He’s just an all-around good guy.

5) He is a good communicator.

This one has been left until last for a reason. If there is only one point you can take away from this article, let it be this one.

According to a survey undertaken by YourTango asking mental health professionals, the biggest reason cited for divorce was “poor communication” at an overwhelming sixty-five percent.

He knows how to get his point across effectively and hides nothing, no matter how far into your relationship. As he is a man, he will most likely be direct and upfront in his communication style, as no mincing with words applies here. There are no assumptions between you. As there are no assumptions of any kind in the way, it gives both you and his peace of mind to enjoy being together.

Final Thoughts on Falling in Love With a Sincere Man

These five signs spell one word that we, at Power of Positivity, L-O-V-E. This is precisely how your sincere man feels about you.

10 Foods That Make You Healthier (That Cost Less Than $1)

May 7, 2017 by Power of Positivity

Is this even possible nowadays? Surely the only foods that cost less than a dollar is a burger from McDonald’s or other fast food outlets?

This article is mainly written based on figures in the United States of America, but they should be of similar value in local currency worldwide. It costs a minimum of US$10.51 per day in the USA for Western food, which translates to $325.73 per *month. For Asian food, it costs US$8.30 daily, making the *monthly spend $257.38.

Hold your horses, Clint. I feel lucky today. Ten healthy foods cost under US $1. You can get these at the local market, nutrition store, corner shop or smaller grocery store. You clamor, “Go ahead, make my day.”

Here are 10 healthy foods you can get for less than $1:

1. Two cage-free organic eggs – US$0.84

You can taste the difference between eggs laid by truly free-range hens and commercially-farmed ones. How? It is in their diet. The free range hens eat seeds, plants, worms, and insects. The others peck away at soy, corn, and cottonseed. Do not forget that free range means outside on grass, not on a cement courtyard, therefore the food received by the hens is not the same.

2. Raw organic milk, 8 oz – US$0.62

Despite having been slated in the past, raw milk has a plethora of nutrients in it. The bad news is that this particular milk can be difficult to obtain. It tastes better than pasteurized milk and is healthier for you. Here are five health benefits of raw milk: 1) Reduces allergies; 2) Aids in improvement of skin health; 3) Fights nutrient deficiencies; 4) Can be used to make probiotic foods, such as cheese, yogurt, and kefir; 5) No added sugar or other refined ingredients or products.

3. Raw Nuts and Seeds: Sunflower seeds, raw, 1 oz – US$0.82 & Mixed raw nuts, 1/2 oz – US$1.00

Nuts are not good if you suffer from high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol levels, or excess weight. However, they have high protein levels, perfect for vegetarians or vegans as a substitute for meat. Walnuts, pecans, hazelnuts, almonds, and Brazil nuts are the best choice, and peanuts are to be avoided due to their content of pesticides. Brazil nuts are good for testosterone levels and sperm production, thyroid protection, Vitamin E, fighting against acne, and nice-looking skin. They also have other properties, such as riboflavin, and manganese, and are high in fiber. Seeds are a little better than nuts due to the lower carbohydrate intake. Take a particular interest in flax and chia seeds. Grind flax seeds in a coffee grinder to get the best results from fibers and the healthiest fats. Plant the seed of going nuts for a healthier life!

4. Berries: 1 cup fresh organic blueberries – US$0.95

Berries are very good for you. Blueberries contain Vitamins A and C, magnesium, potassium, iron, zinc, and calcium, and the substance that gives them that dark colour, anthocyanin. They protect us from harmful ailments, such as cancer, brain damage from strokes, urinary tract infections, and health problems onset by age. Other organic berries that can help you are: strawberries, cranberries, and raspberries. Be very pro-berry!

5. One-pound slice watermelon – US$0.59

Harry, look no further than the watermelon for these health benefits: beta-carotene, lycopene, and citrulline. This means that it is good for the circulatory, immune, and even the reproductive system. In other words, it works just like Viagra but without harmful chemicals. “You’ve got to ask yourself one question. ‘Do I feel lucky?’ Well, do you, punk?” With watermelon as your tool, you are at least well-equipped for some luck!

6. Coconut milk, 7 oz – US$0.98

Go loco for coco! Used in Thai cuisine for centuries, this article could never do coconut milk enough justice. It has medium-chain fatty acids, known in the medical world as triglycerides, which help raise the body’s metabolism, fight off bacteria, viruses, and fungi, promote thyroid function, and help digestion. Only human breast milk has more triglyceride content.

7. Fresh organic spinach, 5 oz – US$0.95

High in those trusted anti-oxidants and Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC), you can immediately tell spinach is one of the, if not the best veggie out there. ORAC is a measurement to determine how well a food can destroy something potentially harmful in your body. Spinach may be what you have been looking for to improve memory and fight Alzheimer’s disease. It also has folic acid in spades and lutein and zeaxanthin, which lowers the risk of age-related macular degeneration. You expected the article to mention Popeye, right? Oops!

8. Garlic, two cloves – US$0.05

Forgive its strong taste and bad smell. Garlic is a big player in the healthy food stakes. When garlic makes a move, everyone notices. Its trademark is an antibiotic, antiviral, antifungal, and antiparasitic agent, as smooth as 007 himself. The risk of many forms of cancer is decreased, and osteoporosis and hypertension do not stand a chance. Do be aware, however, that garlic has a Cinderella effect on it, with its active ingredient, allicin vanishing after approximately an hour after going under your kitchen knife. And please, do not even waste your time on garlic pills. Fresh garlic only, Mr. Bond!

9. Wild rice, one serving – US$0.99

Would you normally eat grass? No? Do not be fooled by the name of wild rice; it is actually a grass. It comes from the seed Zizania aquatica, indigenous to the Great Lake area of North America. Enough of names from an almost dead language and geographic locations; how can eating wild rice benefit you? Where do we even begin? Niacin, protein, fibre, magnesium, B vitamins, potassium, folic acid, zinc, phosphorus are all present and correct here.

10. Krill oil, two capsules – US$0.84

Are you left wondering, “What on earth is that?” Fear not, dear friends! Krill is a minuscule shrimp or prawn which is normally the food of the great whale, consuming roughly 8,000 pounds of krill EVERY DAY! On to its health benefits for you, how does a healthy heart sound for starters? Or healthy joints? What about fighting aging and having healthy skin? Does being in a better mood sound appetising? And help for the brain and nervous system? For icing on a very healthy cake, how about having a more optimal level of cholesterol?

Total spent = US$8.63

* Assuming the month has thirty-one days.

References:
Other A N., “Food Prices in the United States”, Numbeo, https://www.numbeo.com/food-prices/country_result.jsp?country=United+States
Other A N.,, “Ten Healthiest Foods Under $1”, Dr. Mercola, http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2008/08/23/ten-healthiest-foods-under-1.aspx
Other A N., “Brazil Nuts: Health Benefits and Uses” Doctors Health Press, http://www.doctorshealthpress.com/food-and-nutrition-articles/brazil-nuts-health-benefits

This Special Bracelet Allows You To Feel Your Partner’s Touch From Anywhere In The World

May 6, 2017 by Power of Positivity

Long-distance relationships are a challenge that many couples face. Often, a career choice carries one partner away from the other for an extended absence. Couples face the challenge of maintaining a positive presence in each others’ lives when apart. You may be apart from your partner. But now you can feel your partner’s touch from anywhere in the world with a new wearable tech device called HEY by House of Haptics.

Haptic wearable technology lets you reach out and touch your partner anywhere in the world

The physical sensation of touch is one of the ways we communicate intimacy and love. Haptic technology is a way for people to experience social or loving touch through technology. Those who have tried HEY say that they feel a squeeze, a grasp, or a slight twitch that is subtle but noticeable.

Without the need to say something, using the HEY bracelet with your partner can show that you are thinking about them even when you have to be away. The bracelet is starting production after a Kickstarter campaign raised enough money for the product to begin delivery in August 2017.

Creators of HEY say that the technology allows you to feel like you are in touch with the people you love. They say it gives you another way to communicate with your loved ones in addition to the ways you already do now.

As near as a bracelet on your wrist, no matter how far away your partner is

Being separated from your partner means missing the pleasure of physical contact. Physical contact gives us many emotional, social, sensual, and physical health benefits.

Research published by the Association for Computing Machinery found that touch, even by a technological device that could be seen as cold and impersonal, is a unique channel in communicating emotion. Researchers say “the relation of touch to affect is immediate, without the need for… decoding.” Their experiment showed that remote touch with haptic technology helped reduce feelings of sadness when partners were apart and increased feelings of joy.

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1596731227/hey-a-revolutionary-bracelet-that-sends-touch-over

The bracelet that gives you stress relief from your partner’s touch

A bracelet is just an object, you may think. “It can’t provide the feelings of love that I would get if my partner were here,” you may say. Partner substitutes can help reduce stress through touch. Believe it or not, researchers found that even hugging a person-shaped cushion can reduce your levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

Interpersonal touch is a fundamental component of social interactions because it can mitigate physical and psychological distress. To reproduce the psychological and physiological effects associated with interpersonal touch, interest is growing in introducing tactile sensations to communication devices.

The researchers tested stress hormone cortisol levels before and after a 15-minute conversation with a huggable person-shaped cushion and communication device. Conversations with the human-shaped cushion that could be hugged revealed a significant reduction in cortisol levels compared to those who talked only by mobile phone. The research shows that haptic technology like the HEY bracelet can improve social support systems in modern societies by giving the sensation of physical touch.

Sources:
http://www.glamour.com/story/touch-transmitting-bracelet-for-long-distance-relationships
Association for Computing Machinery Touch & talk: contextualizing remote touch for affective interaction
https://www.nature.com/articles/srep03034

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Never Ignore These Ten Red Flags That May Reveal Fibromyalgia

1. Head-to-toe pain

2. Persistent fatigue, or exhaustion

3. Body stiffness

4. Poor quality sleep

5. “Trigger points” that evoke pain or tenderness

6. Abnormal digestion

7. Numbness, swelling, or tingling

8. Spasms of the fingers and toes

9. Sensitivity to temperature

10. ‘Fibro fog.’

10 Care Tips For People Who Have Fibromyalgia

1. Manage stress with meditation

2. Get enough sleep

3. Exercise, but not too much

4. Rest

5. Take Hot Baths

6. Be flexible about work

7. Reduce inflammatory foods

8. Stay positive

9. Get a massage

10. Listen to music

Final Thoughts on Fibromyalgia

Here are five things we should all aim to give up:

1. Give Up The Need For Control

2. The Need To Be Right

3. Give Up The Need To Complain

4. The Need To Make Excuses

5. Give Up The Need To Limit Yourself

Here are those 6 nutritional deficiency signs:

1. Your skin, hair, or nails look a bit rough

2. Your bowel movements are irregular

3. You’ve got the “red eyes”

4. You bruise too often or too easily

5. You “cramp up” rather often

6. You feel tired all the time

Final Thoughts on Identifying and Fixing a Nutritional Deficiency

5 Signs You’re With A Sincere Man

1) He empowers you.

2) He fights fairly.

3) He wants the same things as you.

4) He prioritizes the relationship over other things.

5) He is a good communicator.

Final Thoughts on Falling in Love With a Sincere Man

Here are 10 healthy foods you can get for less than $1:

1. Two cage-free organic eggs – US$0.84

2. Raw organic milk, 8 oz – US$0.62

3. Raw Nuts and Seeds: Sunflower seeds, raw, 1 oz – US$0.82 & Mixed raw nuts, 1/2 oz – US$1.00

4. Berries: 1 cup fresh organic blueberries – US$0.95

5. One-pound slice watermelon – US$0.59

6. Coconut milk, 7 oz – US$0.98

7. Fresh organic spinach, 5 oz – US$0.95

8. Garlic, two cloves – US$0.05

9. Wild rice, one serving – US$0.99

10. Krill oil, two capsules – US$0.84

Haptic wearable technology lets you reach out and touch your partner anywhere in the world

As near as a bracelet on your wrist, no matter how far away your partner is

The bracelet that gives you stress relief from your partner’s touch

Sources: http://www.glamour.com/story/touch-transmitting-bracelet-for-long-distance-relationships Association for Computing Machinery Touch & talk: contextualizing remote touch for affective interaction https://www.nature.com/articles/srep03034

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Rise and Shine On! Master Your Day with the Ultimate Positive Morning Guide + Checklist

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Us

Every day is a day to shine. Shine on!

Sources:
http://www.glamour.com/story/touch-transmitting-bracelet-for-long-distance-relationships
Association for Computing Machinery Touch & talk: contextualizing remote touch for affective interaction
https://www.nature.com/articles/srep03034

Rise and Shine On!
Master Your Day with the Ultimate Positive Morning Guide + Checklist